Getting approved for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is no fast or easy task. In fact, it can potentially involve an initial denial of benefits. That’s why having experienced guidance when applying for benefits or dealing with other issues that may arise after being approved can be worthwhile.
The Social Security Administration (SSA), which administers the SSDI program, requires a significant amount of documentation and other information regarding just how a person’s injury or illness affects their ability to earn a living. Unless a condition isn’t expected to improve, SSA will require regular updates and reevaluation to continue providing benefits. A key factor in determining benefits is a person’s “residual functional capacity” or RFC.
How is RFC determined?
A person’s RFC is their “maximum remaining ability” to do not just their previous job but also other types of work on a sustained basis (a regular workday and work week) despite any limitations caused by their condition.
RFC is initially assessed when a person first applies for SSDI based on doctors’ statements and other information the applicant provides. The “adjudicators” who assess RFC consider only “limitations and restrictions attributable to medically determinable impairments.” In other words, things like age, weight and other individual factors unrelated to their medical condition aren’t considered.
The more an SSDI applicant or current recipient understands about how benefits are determined, the greater their chances are of getting the financial support they and their family need while they’re unable to work.
The SSA is an enormous federal agency that serves many millions of Americans. Even a small mistake or oversight that delays an application or puts it in the “denied” pile can lead to significant delays and financial hardship. That’s why, as noted earlier, getting experienced legal guidance as early as possible can make all the difference.